Families heading out and about this October half-term can enjoy a mix of cars, autumn adventures and spooky stories at Beaulieu in the New Forest, with plenty to keep children and grown-ups entertained from 24 October to 1 November 2026.
It’s also the last chance to see Beaulieu’s Disney and Pixar’s Cars 20th anniversary display, before it races off on 1 November.
Disney and Pixar’s Cars Comes to Beaulieu
Young Disney and Pixar’s Cars fans can get up close to life-size models of some of the films’ best-known characters, including Lightning McQueen, Jackson Storm and Finn McMissile.
There are also colourful themed props to discover, including the iconic Piston Cup, and budding racers can pose for a photograph on the winner’s podium.
The Cars display is included with general admission, making it an easy addition to a family day out at Beaulieu.
Follow a New Folklore Trail
A brand-new folklore trail is launching for October half-term, taking families on an autumnal adventure around the attraction.
Children can collect a list of enchanting ingredients as they explore different areas of Beaulieu, including the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu Abbey, Palace House and its autumn gardens.
There is a different herb to collect at each location before families head to the Bothy in the Victorian Vegetable Garden. Here, they can mix their collected herbs together to create their own magical potion.
Families can also listen to ghost stories in Palace House, discovering some of the spooky tales associated with the Victorian country home.
Explore Beaulieu’s Motoring Attractions
There’s plenty more to explore for families interested in cars and motoring. The National Motor Museum takes visitors through the history of motoring, from some of the earliest motor carriages to Land Speed Record breakers and Formula One cars.
The museum’s Driven: Britain’s Motoring Story gallery explores how motoring has evolved in the UK, while the Stop, Look and Listen trail offers another way for younger visitors to explore.
The Transmission exhibition in the In Focus gallery features colourful artwork by French artist Alan Reullier, inspired by classic car design.
For a more nostalgic experience, We Had One of Those gives visitors the chance to sit in cars from the 1960s through to the 2000s. It’s an opportunity for parents and grandparents to show children what cars were like when they were growing up, while reminiscing about family road trips and cars from the past.
Families can also see some famous vehicles in On Screen Cars, including the Ford Anglia from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Mr Bean’s Mini, Smithy’s Volvo from Gavin & Stacey, the Jaguar XKR from Die Another Day and cars from Doctor Who.
Plenty for Younger Visitors
Younger children can burn off some energy at Little Beaulieu, the adventure play area set among the trees.
The play area includes a wooden replica of Palace House, hidden passageways, a zip wire and a secret bookcase, while a family-friendly seating area gives parents somewhere to take a breather.
For an extra treat, October half-term is also the last chance this year to ride around the Beaulieu grounds on Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
Two Days Out for the Price of One
Beaulieu is also bringing back its popular Return for Free offer, giving visitors the opportunity to return for another day out within six days of their first visit.
The offer applies to the original guests, so families can make the most of their admission by spreading their visit across two days.
All the October half-term activities are included in general admission, which also provides access to the National Motor Museum, We Had One of Those, On Screen Cars, Palace House, Beaulieu Abbey and Little Beaulieu, along with unlimited rides on the Monorail and Veteran Bus during the day.
Whether you’re visiting the New Forest during the school holidays or looking for a family day out packed with cars, autumn activities and a touch of spooky fun, Beaulieu has plenty to explore this October half-term.
Disney and Pixar’s Cars 20th Anniversary Display and October Half-Term activities run from 24 October to 1 November 2026.
Find out more and book tickets at www.beaulieu.co.uk.
Return for Free terms and conditions apply.
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang rides are subject to availability and additional terms may apply.
